Louisville’s Jeff Brohm Earns National Recognition but Falls Short of Coach of the Year Honor

Louisville Cardinals Head Coach Jeff Brohm received major recognition this season, being named the Paul “Bear” Bryant Coach of the Week on November 5, 2024. This honor came after a statement victory that solidified Louisville’s rise under his leadership. The Paul “Bear” Bryant Awards recognize the nation’s top college football coaches, and Brohm’s impressive performance put him among the finalists for the prestigious Coach of the Year Award.

However, in a competitive field, the ultimate award went to Notre Dame’s Marcus Freeman, who led the Fighting Irish to an outstanding 14-2 season, finishing as national runner-up. Freeman was named the 2024 Paul “Bear” Bryant Coach of the Year on January 22, 2025. His leadership and success on the field earned him the top honor, edging out Brohm and several other accomplished coaches.

While Brohm did not take home the top award, his recognition as a finalist and weekly honoree highlights the impact he has had on Louisville’s program. In his first season, he transformed the Cardinals into a powerhouse, earning national respect and positioning the team for future success.

For a full list of the 2024 Paul “Bear” Bryant Coach of the Year finalists and award details, visit the American Heart Association’s official announcement.